Session Details & Resources

The Reading Spark: Strategies for Increasing Reading Engagement & Fostering Book Joy in Your School Library

Learn strategies to increase reading engagement and create more book joy in your school library. We’ll explore fun games and challenges to get students excited about reading, ways to empower student voice to boost reading engagement, and reading-related activities that build community and foster interaction.

Presenter: Kiernan Hodge

Level: All

Resources: Slide Deck 

OASL Standards: 

• LIB 2.1.A: Read, listen to, and view a variety of genres and formats

• LIB 2.3.B: Contribute to a reading and learning community

• LIB 2.3.C: Self-select reading materials from a variety of genres and formats

Helping Teens Find Their Own Library Adventure

Every reader’s path is different. In this practical, idea-filled session, we will explore how to help young adults discover books and other reading experiences that match their interests, identities, and preferred formats. We’ll consider how student voice, welcoming collections, peer recommendations, and low-pressure invitations can open new paths into reading and how to address barriers that may keep teens from joining the adventure. Participants will leave with adaptable strategies for making the school library a place where every young adult can choose a next step, explore something new, and find a reading journey of their own.

Presenter: April Dawkins

Level: Secondary

Resources: Slide Deck

Build Your Own Escape Room with OSLIS Gale Resources

Escape Rooms are a unique way to engage learners. In this session, we will explore pre-created, content-specific and blank Escape Rooms. Discover how these activities boost literacy, captivate students, and encourage exploration of Gale resources through OSLIS. Learn practical development and implementation tips, then experience the excitement firsthand by completing a Gale Escape Room. Ready to make learning an adventure? Join us and start building your own Escape Rooms today!

Presenter: Tammy Burke

Level: All

Resources: Slide deck coming soon, Gale access via OSLIS (elem., secondary)

OASL Standards: 

• LIB 1.1.A Follow an inquiry-based process to seek knowledge 

• LIB 1.1.B Apply prior knowledge to new learning 

• LIB 1.1.D Develop, select, clarify, and use strategies to search for information 

Understanding the Brain and Behavior

This session would guide participants to understand the brain and behavior, learn some management approaches that are student-focused, and collaborate together to support one another's learning. Participants will understand where behavior originates & understand the impacts to our students' behavior. Participants will learn some basic tools and approaches for managing the students accessing the library. We will talk about how to differentiate our approach to preserve relationships while maintaining high expectations.

Presenter: Erin Taylor

Level: All

Resources: Coming soon!

Running OBOB @ Your School/Library

Are you interested in running Oregon Battle of the Books, but feel intimidated? Treasa is an experienced Site Coordinator and Regional Manager who can answer questions for those interested in supporting Oregon Battle of the Books in their school or public library.

Presenter: Treasa Street

Level: All

Resources: Coming soon!

OASL Standards: 

• LIB 1.1.I

• LIB 1.2.E

• LIB 1.2.F

Book Joy for Neurodivergent Readers! Connecting with youth who experience books in a unique way

Neurodivergent readers struggle with executive functions and self-regulation which form barriers when connecting to texts. Some feel strong anxiety when a new book is handed to them. Librarians can coregulate with students while guiding them to books that meet their interests and sensory needs. This session provides tools that you can use immediately in your library along with lessons and activities for Special Education classes.

Presenter: Nancy Roop

Level: Elementary

Resources: Coming soon!

Gale Made Easy: Exploring OSLIS Resources

This beginner-friendly workshop introduces K–12 librarians to OSLIS’s Gale databases and practical school applications. We will explore platform navigation, authoritative, age-appropriate content, and tools such as Topic Finder and Google/Microsoft integration. Examples include supporting inquiry projects, teaching research skills during library lessons, curating resources for classroom units, and collaborating with teachers/students on research assignments. Librarians leave prepared to embed Gale into instruction, promote information literacy, and support students and educators across all grade levels.

Presenter: Tammi Burke

Level: All

Resources: Slide deck coming soon, Gale access via OSLIS (elem., secondary)

OASL Standards: 

• LIB 1.1.F Select and use tools within sources to access content 

• LIB 1.1.H Read, view, and listen to information in a variety of formats 

• LIB 1.1.J Assess the effectiveness of questions, strategies, and processes used in research to find information 

Beyond the Book Fair: Building an Equity-Focused Community Book Giveaway

Imagine ending the school year with every student carrying home books they genuinely want to read. Learn how to create an annual, equity-focused book collection and giveaway through a six-week plan featuring student leadership, community partnerships, and joyful reading celebrations. Participants will receive timelines, communication templates, donation strategies, scheduling ideas, and practical resources to launch a sustainable program that ensures every student leaves with not just one book, but the amount of books they need to have a full life of fun reading.

Presenter: Deborah Fournier

Level: Elementary

Resources: Coming soon!

OASL Standards / Learning Objectives: 

1. To develop a six-week implementation plan for an annual community book collection and giveaway that engages student leaders, families, and community partners to promote equitable access to books.

Aligns with: LIB 1.1.I (Collaborate to broaden and deepen understanding) and LIB 1.2.F (Collaborate to exchange ideas, make decisions, and solve problems).

2. To evaluate strategies for building sustainable community partnerships, organizing book donations, and managing an equitable distribution model that meets the diverse needs of students.

Aligns with: LIB 1.1.E–G (Find, evaluate, and select sources; evaluate information) and LIB 1.2.B–E (Analyze information, make informed decisions, and solve real-world problems).

3. To create a customized action plan, including communication templates, timelines, and promotional ideas, to launch an equity-centered book giveaway at their own school. 

Aligns with: LIB 1.2.C–E (Analyze, organize, synthesize information; apply knowledge to real-world situations; create solutions through collaboration).

AI and Reading Promotion in the Elementary School Library

Explore the fascinating world of AI and immediately put that knowledge to work through a creative, library ready project. We’ll demystify neural networks with Google’s Quick Draw, experiment with machine learning using Teachable Machine, and sharpen your AI prompting skills through the playful “Say What You See” strategy. Then we’ll bring it all together in Canva as you unleash the power of Magic Media to design Pokémon style Book Review Trading Cards your students will be obsessed with. 

Presenter: Rebecca Wynkoop

Level: Elementary / Middle School

Resources: Coming soon!

Creating Calm: Launching a Facility Dog Program to Support Students in a Digital Age

Discover how the Coeur d’Alene School District built its Facility Dog Program through the experiences of one teacher librarian and her therapy dog. This session covers essential steps the CDA School District took to develop policies, establish procedures, and navigate challenges to create a safe and effective program. We’ll also explore how facility dogs help calm digitally overstimulated students, providing grounding, reducing anxiety, and supporting healthier re‑engagement with learning.

Presenter: Kiersten Kerr

Level: All

Resources: Slide Deck

Readers as Leaders: Managing Student Internship and Volunteer Programs

Having student help can save time, cultivate buy-in, and boost creative kid-centered ideas in the library, but how does a busy library staff create meaningful work for student helpers, and how do we effectively manage their time spent in the library? With information and resources including assignments, task lists, and syllabi for both K-8 and high school volunteer and graded internship programs. Start a new program or strengthen your existing program.

Presenter: Ayn Reyes Frazee

Level: All

Resources: Readers as Leaders Presentation Slide Deck 

OASL Standards: 

• LIB 1.2.E Use information to solve real-world problems and inspire further investigation

• LIB 1.2.F Collaborate with others to exchange ideas, develop new understandings, make decisions, and solve problems

• LIB 1.3.B Use appropriate tools to create and share new work

Write It to Win It: Grant Writing Tips and Tricks for School Librarians

In this workshop you will be introduced to many tips on successful grant writing and reporting as well as types of grants and where to find them.

Presenter: Keely Nudo

Level: All

Resources: Canva / PowerPoint / Grant Writing Infographic

Objectives: 

Objective 1 - Attendees will learn where to find available grants/funders

Objective 2 - Attendees will learn how to develop compelling grant applications through storytelling

Objective 3 - Attendees will learn how important the reporting/thank you process is and how to do it properly

Law for Librarians: Protecting Free Speech for Young Minds

Unpack the complex legal landscape governing student free speech and library curation. From landmark SCOTUS decisions to modern court rulings on book challenges and "soft censorship," this session clarifies essential legal terminology—including government speech, community standards, and obscenity—equipping educators and librarians with actionable insights to navigate policy decisions confidently.

Presenter: Heather Hornor

Level: All

Resources: Coming soon!

OASL Standards: 

• LIB 1.1.I Collaborate to broaden and deepen understanding

• LIB 1.2.B Analyze and evaluate information to make informed decisions

• LIB 1.2.F Collaborate with others to exchange ideas, develop new understandings, make decisions, and solve problems

School Reading Culture and Staff Support

The Bookies and Cookies Book Club invites readers into a cozy community where staff reading lives are vital to the reading culture of our school. Each month, members receive a bag with five handpicked books and two homemade cookies, then return it for a fresh set. It’s an easy, joyful way to celebrate stories, share favorites, and nurture a vibrant reading community together.

Presenter: Rebecca Wynkoop

Level: All

Resources: Coming soon!

Diverse Books for Your Elementary Collection

Furthering our commitment to inclusion and opening windows and doors to our diverse world, you'll leave this session with a list of potential books to add to your elementary school library's collection.

Presenter: Kate Jacobson Dutro

Level: Elementary

Resources: Slide Deck

OASL Standards: 

• LIB 1.2.D Collaborate with others to exchange ideas, develop new understandings, make decisions and solve problems

• LIB 2.1.B Identify, reflect upon and respond to works which exemplify the human experience

• LIB 2.1.F Read to seek multiple diverse and inclusive perspectives

The “Sandlot Librarian”: How to Maximize Our Local Impact  

The world may feel increasingly dystopian, but there’s still lots of good we can do in our individual classrooms, libraries, schools, and communities. Whether it’s establishing a schoolwide Read and WRAP routine or launching a Project LIT chapter, this collaborative session reminds us what is possible. The key, of course, is to start with our “nine,” whether they’re Smalls, just looking for a book and a place to belong, or Benny, with dreams of becoming a professional author, or anyone in between. 

Presenter: Jarred Amato

Level: Secondary

Resources: Coming soon!

Read Your Way with Oregon Talking Books

Nationally, 1 in 5 people are dyslexic, and in Oregon over 670,000 people live with one or more disabilities. Printed books aren’t accessible to everyone. Learn how Oregon Talking Books provides free and equitable access to a large and diverse collection of free audiobooks, eBooks, Braille, and assistive devices available only through the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (Library of Congress) and the State Library of Oregon.

Join us for this session and you’ll leave an expert of all things Talking Books: recognizing different print disabilities (visual, physical, perceptual, and reading), identifying who can connect eligible people with our services as a Certifying Authority, and understanding our straightforward and barrier-free enrollment process.

Presenters: Tiff Bowers & Jen Robinson

Level: All

Resources: Coming soon!

OASL Standards: 

• Standard 1: Use skills, resources and tools to inquire, think critically and gain knowledge 

• LIB 1.1.H Read, view, and listen to information in a variety of formats 

• Standard 2: Use skills, resources and tools to draw conclusions, make informed decisions, create new knowledge and apply knowledge to new situations 

• LIB 1.2.C Analyze, organize, and synthesize information using a variety of tools 

Building Bridges with Books: Bilingual Book Club

What happens when students see their languages and identities reflected in the library? This session highlights a successful bilingual book club from a middle school library, where students engage with literature in both English and Spanish to build community, confidence, and a love of reading. Attendees will get an inside look at how the club was launched, how texts are selected to reflect student identities, and how discussions are structured to support varying levels of language proficiency. The presenter will share real student experiences, challenges, and successes, along with practical strategies for recruitment, collaboration with teachers, and sustaining engagement. Participants will leave with adaptable tools, sample discussion formats, and a curated list of bilingual and translated titles to bring a similar program to life in their own schools.

Presenter: Rachael Welsh

Level: All

Resources: Slide Deck

I Feel the Need, the Need to Weed! Weeding Library Collections 101

Most library staff enjoy purchasing books for the library collection, but that's just one step of the collection cycle. Another step is weeding the collection to keep it current and relevant. Folks don't always enjoy weeding as much, but it's vital. Come learn why it's important, weeding techniques, and tips for staying on top of the task. This session is geared towards staff with no formal library education, but all are welcome.

Presenter: Jen Maurer

Level: All

Resources: Slide Deck

OASL Standards: 

Weeding supports these Oregon School Library Standards (and more):

• Information Literacy Standard 1: Use skills, resources, and tools to inquire, think critically, and gain knowledge,

• Reading Engagement Standard 1: Develop an appreciation for reading

Everyday Advocacy: Increasing the Profile of School Library Programs

School library programs are at risk in many school districts. Waiting until cuts are proposed to advocate is often too late--advocacy must happen every day. In this session, you will learn simple ways to raise the profile of your school library program and shine a light on the essential role school libraries play in our school communities. Participants will gain small actionable strategies that highlight the work already being done by school library workers and forge strong relationships with budget decision-makers. 

Presenter: Sarah Logan

Level: All

Resources: Coming soon!

OASL Standards: 

• LIB 1.1.I Collaborate to broaden and deepen understanding

• LIB 1.2.E Use information to solve real-world problems and inspire further investigation

• LIB 1.2.G Reach and defend informed conclusions based on best evidence.

The S.A.R. Patriot Chest Program

The Lewis and Clark Chapter of the S.A.R. Patriot Chest Program is an immersive, hands-on, experience where participants engage with chapter members, dressed in period correct attire and a myriad of actual artifacts from the Revolutionary period. The presentation is interactive, with presenters responding to participants’ inquiries about the objects, clothing and aspects of life during this crucial time in America’s fight for independence.

Presenter: Mike Lebsock

Level: All

Resources: Coming soon!

Curing Resource Fragmentation

Teachers and students open one app for the library catalog, several more for digital subscriptions and resources, wasting precious time that can be spent researching. The problem is not the resources, it is resource fragmentation. It is no wonder they opt for Google, YouTube and Chat GPT.

Alexandria’s Monarch eliminates rampant fragmentation by consolidating all approved resources under one search platform designed to streamline access to approved instructional content coalescing the research process.

Presenter: Steve Kindel

Level: All

Resources: Coming soon!

OASL Standards: 

• LIB 1.1.E 

• LIB 1.1.F 

• LIB 1.1.G

• LIB 1.2 (all)

Micro-Content: Rapid Information Delivery Using Learn360

Although streaming media is ubiquitous, student engagement hinges on the effective integration of video into instruction. This session focuses on the power of micro-content—short, focused video clips under three minutes designed to teach specific concepts or skills. By alleviating cognitive overload and providing just-in-time learning, these resources allow students to learn at their own pace. We will demonstrate subject-specific strategies for utilizing Learn360 and Classroom Video On Demand.

Presenter: Carter Cook

Level: All

Resources: Slide Deck

OASL Standards: 

• The presentation supports LIB 1.1.E and 1.1.G by teaching critical evaluation of media bias. 

• Creating custom segments addresses LIB 1.1.F by teaching use of navigational tools. 

• Integrating streaming media supports LIB 1.1.H by utilizing various digital information formats.

Stark Raving OYAN: Graphic Novels and Manga

What are the best current manga and graphic novels for teens? OYAN has done the reading, we've done the voting, and we will reveal the 2026 Graphic Rave list during this session. We will give you information on why the book is special and what age group it's suited for along with why it made our list.

Presenter: Mark Richardson & Lily Hawley

Level: Secondary

Resources: Coming soon!

OASL Standards: 

• LIB 1.1.G - Read, view and listen to information in a variety of formats

• LIB 2.1.A - Read, listen to, and view a variety of genres and formats

• LIB 2.1.E - Appreciate and evaluate author's craft and use of literary devices

• LIB 2.1.F - Read to seek multiple diverse and inclusive perspectives

• LIB 2.3.B - Contribute to a reading and learning community

• LIB 2.3.C - Self-select reading materials from a variety of genres and formats

• LIB 2.3.D - Make personal connections to the real world when reading a variety of texts

From Vision to Practice: Building and Sustaining a K-12 Digital Citizenship Program

Discover how Lincoln County School District implemented and refined a comprehensive K-12 digital citizenship program over three years. Learn practical strategies for advocating with stakeholders, leveraging free resources like Common Sense Education, and building sustainable systems across 11 schools. Participants will gain actionable frameworks for creating district-wide digital literacy programs, addressing implementation challenges, and continuously improving based on feedback from students and educators.

Presenter: Michelle Cotrell

Level: All

Resources: Coming soon!

OASL Standards: 

• 1. LIB 1.1.G (Grades 6-12): Evaluate information for accuracy, validity, importance, and bias

• Alignment: The digital citizenship curriculum directly teaches students to critically evaluate online content, recognize bias in digital spaces, and assess the validity of information they encounter on social media and the web.

• 2. LIB 1.2.B (Grades 6-12): Analyze and evaluate information to make informed decisions

• Alignment: The program empowers students to make informed decisions about their digital footprint, online interactions, and technology use by evaluating elements such as bias, credibility, reliability, and personal biases in digital environments.

• 3. LIB 1.2.E (Grades 9-14): Use information to solve real-world problems and inspire further investigation

• Alignment: The lessons address complex real-world problems students face daily—cyberbullying, social media pressures, AI literacy, online safety—using credible information to generate solutions and expand critical thinking about digital citizenship issues.